Convertible lounge sofa and methods of use

ABSTRACT

A convertible lounge sofa system for seating, lounging, and working having a sofa seat bottom having a dual armrest/headrest positioned on one end, sofa seat bottom is configurable thereto a side facing chaise lounge seat having a back support segment, a center segment, a seat pan segment, and a lower leg support segment, and a sofa seat back configured to be opened, with deployable working surface, a storage feature, a power/data feature, and a lighting feature, and, thus, functions to enable seating configurations that utilize reduced floor space with smaller foot prints, and enable multi-person seating as in 1-2 or more and then conversion into a single person lounge or work seating by rotating 90 degrees.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

To the full extent permitted by law, the present United StatesNon-provisional Patent Application hereby claims priority to and thefull benefit of, U.S. Provisional Application No. 62/881,791, filed onAug. 1, 2019, entitled “Multifunction Convertible Lounge Sofa andMethods of Use”, which is incorporated by reference herein in itsentirety.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure is directed to a convertible lounge sofa systemand methods of use thereof. More specifically, the present disclosure isdirected to a seating apparatus that is convertible between seating andlounging and having a minimally sized form factor.

BACKGROUND

Various approaches or form factors have been utilized for human seatingor laying from a chair or sofa of generally conventional design having aseat, support legs, frame, cushions and a back extending upwardly fromthe seat in a rigid or hinged configuration between the seat andbackrest. One disadvantage or drawback to these approaches is that,these seating configurations take up valuable floor space with largefoot prints. Another disadvantage or drawback to these approaches isthat, these seating configurations do not enable multi-person seating asin 2 or more and then conversion into a single person lounge or workseating.

Therefore, it is readily apparent that there is a recognizable unmetneed for a convertible lounge sofa system and methods of use that may beconfigured to address at least some aspects of the problems discussedabove common to seating for home, business, travel, hospitality industryand guest experiences.

SUMMARY

Briefly described, in an example embodiment, the present disclosure mayovercome the above-mentioned disadvantages and may meet the recognizedneed for a convertible lounge sofa system and methods of use, forseating, lounging, and working having a sofa base mounted to orsupported by the floor, a sofa seat bottom supported by said sofa base,said sofa seat bottom having an armrest/headrest positioned on one end,and said sofa seat bottom is configurable thereto a side facing chaiselounge seat having a back support segment, a center segment, a seat pansegment, and a lower leg support segment, a sofa seat back supported bysaid sofa base and positioned adjacent said sofa seat bottom, said sofaseat back configured to be opened, said sofa back having therein adeployable working surface, a storage feature, a power/data feature, anda lighting feature, wherein said sofa seat back is formed of a lowersegment and a height adjustable upper segment, wherein said lowersegment is configured having an armrest, and said sofa seat back havinga slot therebetween said a lower segment and said height adjustableupper segment to deploy said working surface, and, thus, functions toenable seating configurations that utilize reduced floor space withsmaller foot prints, and enable multi-person seating as in 1-2 or moreand then conversion into a single person lounge or work seating.

Accordingly, in one aspect, the present disclosure may provide thefunctionality of a sofa, a chaise style recliner and a deployableworking surface into a minimally sized form factor.

Accordingly, in another aspect, the present disclosure may provideseating with a sofa back configured to be opened to reveal a deployableworking surface, storage features, power, and lighting features and anarmrest surface.

Accordingly, in another aspect, the present disclosure may be configuredto support a person using the sofa in a chaise lounge manor (anyposition between flat bench and upright ninety degree seating).

Accordingly, in another aspect, the present disclosure may be configuredto allow the sofa to seat 1-2 or more people in a typical sofa manner orallow a person to sit and turn 90 degrees relative to the seat back in achaise lounge position.

Accordingly, in another aspect, the present disclosure may be configuredto allow the sofa to be used or installed into spaces which otherwisewould not have sufficient space to accommodate these functions with thecurrent seating options, in space challenged residential or commercialenvironments or vehicles.

Accordingly, in another aspect, the present disclosure may be configuredfor use in business aircraft and various forms of road and rail vehicleswhere the need for multiuse adaptability is important and smaller footprints application requirements.

Accordingly, in another aspect, the present disclosure may include anyand all dimensional relationships, to include variations in size,material, shape, form, position, function and manner of operation,assembly and use, are intended to be encompassed by the presentdisclosure.

In an exemplary embodiment of the convertible lounge sofa system mayinclude a sofa, the sofa includes a sofa base, a sofa seat bottomsupported by the sofa base, the sofa seat bottom having a dual usearmrest/headrest positioned on one end, and a seat back consolesupported by the sofa base and positioned adjacent the sofa seat bottom,the seat back console having a first lower seat back segment and asecond upper seat back segment configured to be opened, the seat backconsole having therein a deployable working surface, wherein the seatback console is configured having a slot therebetween the first lowerseat back segment and the second upper seat back segment to deploy thedeployable working surface perpendicular to the seat back console in aclosed position.

In another exemplary embodiment of the convertible lounge sofa systemmay include a convertible sofa to side facing chaise lounge for use by auser to support a head, a torso, a buttocks, an upper leg, a lower legand feet, the sofa includes a sofa base, a sofa seat bottom supported bythe sofa base, the sofa seat bottom having a dual use armrest/headrestpositioned on one end, wherein the sofa seat bottom is segmented havinga first sofa seat assembly to support the torso, a second sofa seatassembly to support the buttocks, a third sofa seat assembly to supportthe thigh, and a fourth sofa seat assembly to support the lower legconvertible to the side facing chaise lounge, and a seat back consolesupported by the sofa base and positioned adjacent the sofa seat bottom,the seat back console having a first lower seat back segment and asecond upper seat back segment configured to be opened.

In another exemplary embodiment of the convertible lounge sofa methodmay include the steps of providing a sofa base, a sofa seat bottomsupported by the sofa base, the sofa seat bottom having a dual usearmrest/headrest positioned on one end, wherein the sofa seat bottom issegmented having a first sofa seat assembly to support the torso, asecond sofa seat assembly to support the buttocks, the second sofa seatassembly is affixed to the sofa base, and the first sofa seat assemblyis hinged to the second sofa seat assembly, a third sofa seat assemblyto support the thigh, the third sofa seat assembly is hinged to thesecond sofa seat assembly, a fourth sofa seat assembly to support thelower leg, the fourth sofa seat assembly is hinged to the third sofaseat assembly third sofa seat assembly, the sofa seat bottom convertibleto the side facing chaise lounge, a seat back console supported by thesofa base and positioned adjacent the sofa seat bottom, the seat backconsole having a first lower seat back segment and a second upper seatback segment configured to be opened, tilting the first sofa seatassembly to provide upright support for the torso, tilting the thirdsofa seat assembly to provide upright support for the upper leg; andtilting the fourth sofa seat assembly to provide downward support forthe lower leg.

A feature of the present disclosure may include a split backrest havinga lower segment and an upper segment hinged between an open and closedposition to provide access to an inner console. The inner console may belockable to keep items stored inside secured.

A feature of the present disclosure may include utilizing the lower orupper segment of the backrest to provide an arm rest for a user in thechaise lounge position.

A feature of the present disclosure may include a cup holder integratedtherein the lower or upper segment of the backrest to hold a cup orbeverage.

A feature of the present disclosure may include utilizing the lower orupper segment of the backrest to provide privacy.

A feature of the present disclosure may include utilizing the sofa seatbottom as an armrest/headrest positioned on either end to accommodate aright or left version of a sofa or chaise lounge with symmetricalconsole.

A feature of the present disclosure may include configuring deployableworking surface therethrough a slot between lower and upper segment ofthe backrest.

A feature of the present disclosure may include configuring deployingworking surface via a multi-function mechanism articulating arm orrotational mechanism, 90 or 180 degree pivot, or simply plug workingsurface into a slotted holder, or the like.

A feature of the present disclosure may include configuring deployingworking surface as a docking station, keyboard, laptop, tablet, readingmaterial surface, eating or drinking surface, work surface, or the like.

A feature of the present disclosure may include utilizing the lowersegment of the backrest to house some or all of the mechanism used toadjust/convert the sofa seat bottom segments into the chaise loungeposition. The mechanism could be a manual or powered solutions.

These and other features of the convertible lounge sofa system andmethods of use will become more apparent to one skilled in the art fromthe prior Summary and following Brief Description of the Drawings,Detailed Description of exemplary embodiments thereof, and Claims whenread in light of the accompanying Drawings or Figures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present convertible lounge sofa system and methods of use will bebetter understood by reading the Detailed Description of the Preferredand Selected Alternate Embodiments with reference to the accompanyingdrawing Figures, in which like reference numerals denote similarstructure and refer to like elements throughout, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in asofa configuration with seat back closed;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in asofa configuration with seat back open;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in asofa configuration with work station deployed;

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in asofa configuration with seat back open;

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in asofa configuration with work station deployed;

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in asofa configuration with work station deployed and seat back closed;

FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in achaise lounge configuration with work station deployed and seat backopen;

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in useas a chaise lounge configuration with work station deployed and seatback open;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in useas a sofa configuration with seat back closed;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select alternate embodiments of the instant disclosure,shown in a sofa configuration with work station deployed and seat backopen;

FIG. 11A is a cross sectional side view of the convertible lounge sofasystem according to select alternate embodiments of the instantdisclosure, shown in a sofa configuration with work station stored andseat back closed;

FIG. 11B is a cross sectional side view of the convertible lounge sofasystem according to select alternate embodiments of the instantdisclosure, shown in a sofa configuration with work station deployed andseat back open;

FIG. 12 is a flow diagram depicting conversion and use of convertiblelounge sofa system;

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in useas a sofa configuration with seat back closed and installed in avehicle;

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to select embodiments of the instant disclosure, shown in useas a chaise lounge configuration with seat back open, work stationdeployed, and installed in a vehicle; and

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of the convertible lounge sofa systemaccording to another select embodiment of the instant disclosure, shownin use as a chaise lounge configuration with work station deployed.

It is to be noted that the drawings presented are intended solely forthe purpose of illustration and that they are, therefore, neitherdesired nor intended to limit the disclosure to any or all of the exactdetails of construction shown, except insofar as they may be deemedessential to the claimed disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In describing the exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure, asillustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11A, 11B, 12, 13, 14and 15 specific terminology is employed for the sake of clarity. Thepresent disclosure, however, is not intended to be limited to thespecific terminology so selected, and it is to be understood that eachspecific element includes all technical equivalents that operate in asimilar manner to accomplish similar functions. Embodiments of theclaims may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should notbe construed to be limited to the embodiments set forth herein. Theexamples set forth herein are non-limiting examples, and are merelyexamples among other possible examples.

Referring now to FIGS. 1-6, by way of example, and not limitation, thereis illustrated an example embodiment of convertible lounge sofa system10, according to this select embodiment. Convertible lounge sofa system10 may be utilized to provide the functionality of a sofa, a chaisestyle recliner, and a deployable working surface into a minimally sizedform factor. In this select embodiment, convertible lounge sofa system10 may include sofa base 20 mounted to or supported by the floor F. Sofabase 20 may include center beam 24 and two perpendicular side beams 21,22 preferably center beam 24 may be center connected thereto side beams22, 24 to form an elongated sturdy base, such as in an H-shapeconfiguration. Moreover, two perpendicular side beams 21, 22 may includea pair of leveling foot pads, such as leveling foot pads 26 thatrotationally extend between two perpendicular side beams 21, 22 andfloor F to enable height adjustment, nonskid, and leveling thereofconvertible lounge sofa system 10. It is contemplated herein that otherconfigurations of sofa base 20 may be utilized herein.

Convertible lounge sofa system 10 may include a seat bench, such as sofaseat bottom assembly 30 supported by and removeably affixed to sofa base20, and more specifically supported by and removeably affixed to centerbeam 24 of sofa base 20. Sofa seat bottom assembly 30 may be dimensionedto allow seating for one to four or more people in series in a typicalflat planar seating mode. Sofa seat bottom assembly 30 includes firstsofa seat end 31 and second sofa seat end 32. Moreover, sofa seat bottomassembly 30 may include a raised end, such as dual use armrest/headrest40, which may be positioned or removably affixed proximate first sofaseat end 31 and/or second sofa seat end 32. It is contemplated hereinthat sofa seat bottom assembly 30 may be configured to be detached fromsofa base 20. This feature enables sofa seat bottom assembly 30 to beinstalled as either a right or left hand armrest/headrest 40orientation. It is further contemplated herein that sofa seat bottomassembly 30 may have dual use armrest/headrest 40 positioned on eitherend to accommodate a right or left version of a sofa or chaise loungewith symmetrical console.

Convertible lounge sofa system 10 may include a backrest, such as seatback console 50 supported by and removeably affixed to sofa base 20, andmore specifically supported by and removeably affixed to side beams 21,22 of sofa base 20. Seat back console 50 may include a lower segment orsection, such as first lower seat back segment 51 and an upper segmentor section, such as second upper seat back segment 52, wherein secondupper seat back segment 52 may be hingedly opened or disconnectedtherefrom first seat back segment 51. It is contemplated herein thatpadding or front surface 54, 56 of first lower seat back segment 51 andsecond upper seat back segment 52 in a closed or connected position maybe aligned to form a comfortable continuous upright surface thereto seatback console 50. Moreover, first lower seat back segment 51 or secondupper seat back segment 52 may include front edge 58 and front edge 58may include a cutout, such as slot 59 configured as handle or hand entryto enable pivot of a hinged second upper seat back segment 52 or liftsecond upper seat back segment 52 therefrom first lower seat backsegment 51 to open seat back console 50 to the open console position.

In use, sofa seat bottom assembly 30 and seat back console 50 form asofa seat and backrest for convertible lounge sofa system 10.

It is recognized herein that convertible lounge sofa system 10 may beused or installed into spaces which otherwise would not have sufficientspace to accommodate these functions with the current state of the art.Besides use in space challenged residential or commercial environmentsconvertible lounge sofa system 10 could also be configured into businessaircraft and various forms of road and rail vehicles where the need formultiuse adaptability is important and small footprint requirements arenecessitated.

Referring again to FIGS. 2 and 4, by way of example, and not limitation,there is illustrated an example embodiment of convertible lounge sofasystem 10, according to this select embodiment with second upper seatback segment 52 shown in an open position. First lower seat back segment51 may include a slider connection or rotational connector, such as seatback hinge assembly 60. Seat back hinge assembly 60 may include firstseat back hinge extension 61A and second seat back hinge extension 62A,each extending vertically up therefrom and positioned opposite oneanother on first seat back segment 51. Moreover, seat back hingeassembly 60 may include first seat back hinge arm 61B and second seatback hinge arm 62B, each extending down therefrom and positionedopposite one another on second seat back segment 52. In use, first seatback hinge extension 61A and first seat back hinge arm 61B, and secondseat back hinge extension 62A and second seat back hinge arm 62B,respectively may be pinned via pin 63 or rotationally coupled to seatback hinge assembly 60 and enable second upper seat back segment 52 tohinge or rotate about first lower seat back segment 51 between an openposition and a closed position. The inner console may be lockable via alock between first lower seat back segment 51 and second upper seat backsegment 52 to keep items stored inside secured.

It is contemplated herein that second upper seat back segment 52 mayhinge from first lower seat back segment 51 by hinging on the upper edgeof the sofa back along or traverse (seat back hinge assembly traverses)the longitudinal axis of first seat back segment 51.

It is further contemplated herein that second upper seat back segment 52may separate from first lower seat back segment 51 by lifting secondupper seat back segment 52 upwards from first lower seat back segment 51using either linear bearing, linear linkage assembly, or a four barstyle linkage assembly, shown in FIG. 10, such as between seat backextension 61A/62A and seat back arm 61B/62B. Furthermore, seat backextension 61A/62A may include stop slot 64 which limits the rotation orover rotation of second upper seat back segment 52.

Furthermore, FIG. 2, by way of example, and not limitation, illustratesadditional seat back console 50 features, such as a retractable orpositionable surface, such as deployable work surface 70 shown stowed inwork surface storage pocket 74. Inner console storage pockets 84configured therein first lower seat back segment 51 may include firstseat back segment armrest 86, lighting features 82 to illuminate seatback console 50, storage pockets 84, and deployable work surface 70,power/data port feature 88, such as AC & USB power, data ports,chargers, cup holder, etc. Deployable work surface 70 may be deployed bypulling up and folding deployable work surface 70 out of seat backsegment 51 or the like ways to deploy deployable work surface 70. Deploydeployable work surface 70 may include handle 76 positioned proximatefront end of deploy deployable work surface 70 to facilitate deployment.

It is contemplated herein that second upper seat back segment 52 in theopen position may provide enhanced privacy. It is recognized herein thatlighting features 82, power/data port feature 88 which are centrallylocated in seat back console 50 but in alternative embodiments could belocated in various positions in seat back console 50.

Referring again to FIGS. 3 and 5, by way of example, and not limitation,there is illustrated an example embodiment of convertible lounge sofasystem 10, according to this select embodiment with second upper seatback segment 52 shown in an open position. First lower seat back segment51 may include support structure, such as articulating arm 120 havingfirst arm end and second arm end, where first arm end may be mounted oraffixed (affix) to first lower seat back segment 51 and second arm endmay extend from first lower seat back segment 51 and be affixed (affix)to deployable work surface 70. Preferably deployable work surface 70 isdeployed from and stowed (stow) in work surface storage pocket 74 infirst lower seat back segment 51 proximate sofa seat bottom assembly 30,therebetween first sofa seat end 31 and second sofa seat end 32, andapproximately perpendicular to seat back console 50 or approximatelyparallel to sofa seat bottom assembly 30.

It is contemplated herein that deployable work surface 70 may bedeployed via sliding, pivoting, rotating mechanisms, detached andplugged into a slot, like work surface storage pocket 74.

Referring again to FIG. 6, by way of example, and not limitation, thereis illustrated an example embodiment of convertible lounge sofa system10, according to this select embodiment with second upper seat backsegment 52 shown in a closed position, in the sofa mode. First lowerseat back segment 51 or second upper seat back segment 52 may includefront edges 58 having a cutout, such as slot 59 configured to enabledeployable work surface 70 to extend from first lower seat back segment51 or second seat back segment 52, therebetween proximate first sofaseat end 31 and second sofa seat end 32, and approximately perpendicularto seat back console 50 or approximately parallel to sofa seat bottomassembly 30.

It is contemplated herein that deployable work surface 70 may bedeployed with articulating arm 73 traveling or extending through slot59. In this mode, deployable work surface 70 may support beverages,snacks and/or electronics in the typical sofa mode.

Referring now to FIGS. 7-8, by way of example, and not limitation, thereis illustrated an example embodiment of a sofa convertible to a chaiselounge, convertible lounge sofa system 10, according to this selectembodiment as a chaise lounge with second upper seat back segment 52 inthe open mode with deployable work surface 70 deployed. Convertiblelounge sofa system 10 may include a planar segmented seat bench, such assofa seat bottom assembly 30 supported by and removeably affixed to sofabase 20, and more specifically supported by and removeably affixed tocenter beam 24 of sofa base 20. Sofa seat bottom assembly 30 may besegmented to enable different in line segments of sofa seat bottomassembly 30 to tilt, raise, or lower to provide 90 degrees user U turninto a chaise lounge position, having a back support segment, such asfirst sofa seat assembly 41 may be angled A1 up to provide uprightsupport for the torso T or back of user U, a center or connector supportsegment, such as second sofa seat assembly 42, affixed preferably tocenter beam 24, to support the buttocks B of user U. It is recognizedthat user U head H may be positioned on dual use armrest/headrest 40. Itis contemplated herein that first sofa seat assembly 41 may be hinged tosecond sofa seat assembly 42 to enable first sofa seat assembly 41 to betilted or angled A1 up to provide upright support for the torso T orback of user U in the chaise lounge mode.

Moreover, a seat pan segment, such as third sofa seat assembly 43 may beangled A2 upward to provide upright support or cradle the upper leg orthigh TH of user U, to support the upper leg or thigh TH of user U. Itis contemplated herein that third sofa seat assembly 43 may be hinged tosecond sofa seat assembly 42 opposite side for first sofa seat assembly41 to enable third sofa seat assembly 43 to be angled A2 up to cradlethe upper leg or thigh TH of user U in the chaise lounge mode.

Furthermore, a lower leg support segment, such as fourth sofa seatassembly 44 may be angled A3 down to provide downward angled to supportfor lower leg LL and feet F of user U. It is contemplated herein thatfourth sofa seat assembly 44 may be hinged to third sofa seat assembly43 opposite side for second sofa seat assembly 42 to enable fourth sofaseat assembly 44 to be angled A3 down to support the lower leg LL orfeet F of user U in the chaise lounge mode.

It is recognized herein that hinged encompasses all forms of allowing onfirst sofa seat assembly 41, second sofa seat assembly 42, third sofaseat assembly 43, and fourth sofa seat assembly 44 to be hingedlyconnected, rotate, pivot or slide relative to its neighboringsegment(s).

It is recognized herein that user U positioned on first sofa seatassembly 41, second sofa seat assembly 42, third sofa seat assembly 43,and fourth sofa seat assembly 44 in the chaise lounge mode may utilizeand have easy access to close proximity placed deployable work surface70 positioned perpendicular to seat back console 50, seat back segmentarmrest 86, lighting features 82 to illuminate seat back console 50,storage pockets 84, and deployable work surface 70, power/data portfeature 88, such as AC & USB power, data ports, chargers, etc.

It is important to note that alternative embodiments are recognizedherein which could have less complex segment articulations. Forinstance, it is conceivable that third sofa seat assembly 43 and fourthsofa seat assembly 44 segments could be fixed. Additionally sofa seatbottom assembly 30 could be segmented like sofa seat assemblies could bea basic sofa bench with cushions that are manually arranged to supportthe user as needed in the chaise lounge position.

First lower seat back segment 51 or center beam 24 may contain or carrysome or all of mechanism 80 used to adjust/convert first sofa seatassembly 41, second sofa seat assembly 42, third sofa seat assembly 43,and fourth sofa seat assembly 44, the sofa seat bottom segments into thechaise lounge position shown in FIG. 8. It is recognized herein thatmechanism 80 may include manual power, electrical actuators, hydraulic,compressed air or the like to create a force of movement to raise andlower first sofa seat assembly 41, second sofa seat assembly 42, thirdsofa seat assembly 43, and fourth sofa seat assembly 44, the sofa seatbottom segments to move first sofa seat assembly 41, second sofa seatassembly 42, third sofa seat assembly 43, and fourth sofa seat assembly44, the sofa seat bottom segments between sofa seat shown in FIG. 2 andchase lounge shown in FIG. 8.

It is recognized herein that a user can translate deployable worksurface 70 laterally (fore & aft) relative to the chaise loungeposition.

An alternative embodiment would be to use the base structure, such ascenter beam 24, to store cushions or pillows used to position the user Uinto the chaise lounge position.

The features in FIGS. 7-8 coupled with the symmetrical nature of seatback console 50 allows the sofa seat bottom assembly, lower first sofaseat assembly 41, second sofa seat assembly 42, third sofa seat assembly43, and fourth sofa seat assembly 44, to be installed as either in aright or left hand chaise lounge orientation.

Convertible lounge sofa system 10 may include a planar segmented seatbench, such as sofa seat bottom assembly 30. Sofa seat bottom assembly30 may be configurable thereto a side facing chaise lounge seat having aback support segment, a center segment, a seat pan segment, and a lowerleg support segment, (lower first sofa seat assembly 41, second sofaseat assembly 42, third sofa seat assembly 43, and fourth sofa seatassembly 44), seat back console 50 supported by sofa base 20.

Referring now to FIG. 9, by way of example, and not limitation, there isillustrated an example embodiment of convertible lounge sofa system 10,according to this select embodiment with user U seated on sofa seatbottom assembly 30 in sofa mode with second upper seat back segment 52in the closed position with deployable work surface 70 stored. User Umay place hand and arm A on dual use armrest/headrest 40

Referring now to FIG. 10, by way of example, and not limitation, thereis illustrated another example embodiment of convertible lounge sofasystem 10, according to this select embodiment with second upper seatback segment 52 shown in an open position. First lower seat back segment51 may include a slider connection or a linear bearing approach, such aslinear motion assembly 100. Linear motion assembly 100 may include firstseat back extension 61A and second seat back extension 62A, eachextending vertically up therefrom and positioned opposite one another onfirst seat back segment 51. Moreover, linear motion assembly 100 mayinclude first seat back slider arm 101 and second seat back slider arm102, each extending down therefrom and positioned opposite one anotheron second seat back segment 52. In use, first seat back extension 61Aand first seat back slider arm 101, and second seat back extension 62Aand second seat back slider arm 102, respectively may be slidably movedrelative to one another to enable second upper seat back segment 52 tolinearly move about first lower seat back segment 51 between an openposition and a closed position.

It is further contemplated herein that second upper seat back segment 52of seat back console 50 may be utilized to provide privacy.

Referring now to FIGS. 11A and 11B, by way of example, and notlimitation, there is illustrated an example embodiment of convertiblelounge sofa system 10, according to this select embodiment as a sofawith second upper seat back segment 52 in the closed/open mode withdeployable work surface 70 stored/deployed, respectively. Referringagain to FIG. 11A, by way of example, and not limitation, there isillustrated an example embodiment of convertible lounge sofa system 10,according to this select embodiment as a sofa with second upper seatback segment 52 in the closed mode with deployable work surface 70stored, stowed, or tucked therein storage pockets 74. Referring again toFIG. 11B, by way of example, and not limitation, there is illustrated anexample embodiment of convertible lounge sofa system 10, according tothis select embodiment as a sofa with second upper seat back segment 52in the open mode with deployable work surface 70 deployed therefrom worksurface storage pocket 74. Deployable work surface 70 may include adeployment and holding mechanism, such as work surface attachment device120 affixed to a backend of deployable work surface 70, such as worksurface extension arm 122 having a latch mechanism on one end, such asbar 124. Moreover, a catch, such as collar 126 may be utilized toreceive bar 124 and collar 126 may be positioned therebetween first seatback extension 61A and second seat back extension 62A proximate worksurface storage pocket 74. It is contemplated herein that deployablework surface 70 may be deployed via sliding deployable work surface 70from work surface storage pocket 74 until bar 124 catches collar 126 andwork surface extension arm 122 rest thereon first seat back segmentarmrest 86 or an internal dedicated stop in the mechanism.

It is contemplated herein that attachment device 120 may include hookand loop, clasp, slot, hook or other like attachment devices.

It is contemplated herein that convertible lounge sofa system 10components may be constructed of wood, aluminum, particle board, or thelike and of different dimensions. This and other materials herein may beconstructed of metal, steel, aluminum, alloy, or plastic or morespecifically high density polyethylene or similar high tensile orstrengthened materials, as these material offers a variety of forms andshapes and provide strength with reduced weight; however, other suitablematerials or the like, can be utilized, provided such material hassufficient strength and/or durability as would meet the purposedescribed herein to enable convertible lounge sofa system 10 to beunfolded into a chaise lounge.

It is understood herein that various changes in the material used,shape, size, arrangement of parts, and parts are connected with bolts,pins, screws or similar fasteners or hinges or other rotating deviceswithout departing from the spirit of the scope of the claims herein.

It is further understood herein that the parts and elements of thisdisclosure may be located or position elsewhere based on one of ordinaryskill in the art without deviating from the present disclosure.

Referring now to FIG. 12, there is illustrated a flow diagram 1200 of amethod of seating utilizing convertible lounge sofa system 10 as amethod of converting a sofa to a side facing chase lounge for use by auser to support a head, a torso, a buttocks, an upper leg, a lower legand feet. In block or step 1210, providing convertible lounge sofasystem 10, as described above in FIGS. 1-11. In block or step 1215,converting convertible lounge sofa system 10 from a sofa, sofa seatbottom assembly 30 shown in FIG. 9 to an in line chaise lounge byadjust/convert/sliding/tilting first sofa seat assembly 41, second sofaseat assembly 42, third sofa seat assembly 43, and fourth sofa seatassembly 44, the sofa seat bottom segments into the chaise loungeposition shown in FIG. 8. In block or step 1220, opening or raising seatback console 50 whether second upper seat back segment 52 may hinge fromfirst lower seat back segment 51 or second upper seat back segment 52may separate from first lower seat back segment 51 by lifting secondupper seat back segment 52 upwards from first lower seat back segment 51to provide user U access to seat back segment armrest 86, lightingfeatures 82 to illuminate seat back console 50, storage pockets 84, anddeployable work surface 70, power/data port feature 88, such as AC & USBpower, data ports, chargers, etc. In block or step 1225, deployingdeployable work surface 70 from work surface storage pocket 74 of seatback console 50.

Referring now to FIG. 13, by way of example, and not limitation, thereis illustrated an example embodiment of convertible lounge sofa system10, according to this select embodiment shown installed in a vehicle V,such as an airplane. The configuration allows the sofa to be used orinstalled into spaces which otherwise would not have sufficient space toaccommodate these functions with the current state of the art. Besidesuse in space challenged residential or commercial environments theinvention could also be configured into business aircraft and variousforms of air, water, road and rail vehicles, including airplane,automobile, truck, bus, train, boat, or like modes of transportation(vehicle V), where the need for multiuse adaptability is important andsmall foot print is available.

Referring now to FIG. 14, by way of example, and not limitation, thereis illustrated an example embodiment of convertible lounge sofa system10, according to this select embodiment shown installed in a vehicle V,such as an airplane. Convertible lounge sofa system 10 according to thisselect embodiment is shown as a chaise lounge with second upper seatback segment 52 in the open mode with deployable work surface 70deployed. The configuration allows the chaise lounge to be used orinstalled into spaces which otherwise would not have sufficient space toaccommodate these functions with the current state of the art. Besidesuse in space challenged residential or commercial environments theinvention could also be configured into business aircraft and variousforms of air, water, road and rail vehicles, including airplane,automobile, truck, bus, train, boat, or like modes of transportation(vehicle V), where the need for multiuse adaptability is important andsmall foot print is available.

Referring now to FIG. 15, by way of example, and not limitation, thereis illustrated an example alternate embodiment of a sofa convertible toa chaise lounge, convertible lounge sofa system 10. Sofa seat bottomassembly 30 may be segmented to enable different in line segments ofsofa seat bottom assembly 30 to tilt, raise, or lower to provide 90degrees user U turn into a chaise lounge position, having a back supportsegment, such as first sofa seat assembly 41 may be angled A1 uprelative to second sofa seat assembly 42, affixed or supportedpreferably to sofa base 20, to support the buttocks B, an upper leg orthigh TH, lower leg LL and feet F of user U, as shown in FIG. 8. It isrecognized that user U head H may be positioned on dual usearmrest/headrest 40. It is contemplated herein that first sofa seatassembly 41 may be hinged to second sofa seat assembly 42 to enablefirst sofa seat assembly 41 to be tilted or angled A1 up to provideupright support for the torso T or back of user U in the chaise loungemode. Moreover, deployable work surface 70 may be deployed by rotatingdeployable work surface 70 about work station pin 128 affixed theretoseat back upper surface 57 of seat back console 50, from first positionP1 stowed to second position P2 in use.

The resulting configurations will allow the sofa to seat 1 to 3 or morepeople in a typical sofa manner or allow user U to sit and turn 90degrees in a chaise lounge position either through a mechanized seat panframe or through throw pillows and open the sofa seat back to access theabove stated features.

With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized thatthe optimum dimensional relationships, to include variations in size,materials, shape, form, position, movement mechanisms, function andmanner of operation, assembly and use, are intended to be encompassed bythe present disclosure.

The foregoing description and drawings comprise illustrativeembodiments. Having thus described exemplary embodiments, it should benoted by those skilled in the art that the within disclosures areexemplary only, and that various other alternatives, adaptations, andmodifications may be made within the scope of the present disclosure.Merely listing or numbering the steps of a method in a certain orderdoes not constitute any limitation on the order of the steps of thatmethod. Many modifications and other embodiments will come to mind toone skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having thebenefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and theassociated drawings. Although specific terms may be employed herein,they are used in a generic and descriptive sense only and not forpurposes of limitation. Moreover, the present disclosure has beendescribed in detail, it should be understood that various changes,substitutions and alterations can be made thereto without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the disclosure as defined by the appendedclaims. Accordingly, the present disclosure is not limited to thespecific embodiments illustrated herein but is limited only by thefollowing claims.

1. A sofa, said sofa comprising: a sofa base; a sofa seat bottomsupported by said sofa base, said sofa seat bottom having a dual usearmrest/headrest positioned on one end; and a seat back consolesupported by said sofa base and positioned adjacent said sofa seatbottom, said seat back console having a first lower seat back segmentand a second upper seat back segment configured to be opened, said seatback console having therein a deployable work surface; wherein said seatback console is configured having a slot therebetween said first lowerseat back segment and said second upper seat back segment to deploy saiddeployable work surface perpendicular to said seat back console in aclosed position.
 2. The sofa of claim 1, wherein said seat back consoleis configured having at least one of a storage feature, a power/datafeature, a lighting feature, and combinations thereof.
 3. The sofa ofclaim 1, wherein said first lower seat back segment of said seat backconsole is configured having a an armrest when said second upper seatback segment is in an open position.
 4. The sofa of claim 1, whereinsaid seat back console further comprises a seat back hinge assemblypositioned between said first lower seat back segment and said secondupper seat back segment.
 5. The sofa of claim 4, wherein said seat backhinge assembly traverses a longitudinal axis of said first lower seatback segment.
 6. The sofa of claim 1, wherein said seat back consolefurther comprises a linear linkage assembly positioned between saidfirst lower seat back segment and said second upper seat back segment.7. The sofa of claim 1, wherein said seat back console further comprisesa work surface storage pocket to stow said deployable work surface. 8.The sofa of claim 1, wherein said deployable work surface is configuredhaving a handle positioned proximate a front end of said deployable worksurface.
 9. The sofa of claim 1, wherein said deployable work surface isconfigured having an articulating arm, said articulating arm having afirst arm end and second arm end, said first arm end is affixed to saidfirst lower seat back segment and said second arm end extends from saidfirst lower seat back segment through said slot to affix to saiddeployable work surface.
 10. The sofa of claim 1, wherein said sofa seatbottom is segmented having a back support segment, a center segment, aseat pan segment, a lower leg support segment configurable as a sidefacing chaise lounge seat.
 11. The sofa of claim 1, wherein said sofabase is affixed to a vehicle.
 12. A sofa convertible to a side facingchaise lounge for use by a user to support a head, a torso, a buttocks,an upper leg, a lower leg and a foot, said sofa comprising: a sofa base;a sofa seat bottom supported by said sofa base, said sofa seat bottomhaving a dual use armrest/headrest positioned on one end, wherein saidsofa seat bottom is segmented having a first sofa seat assembly tosupport the torso, a second sofa seat assembly to support the buttocks,a third sofa seat assembly to support the upper leg, and a fourth sofaseat assembly to support the lower leg convertible to the side facingchaise lounge; and a seat back console supported by said sofa base andpositioned adjacent said sofa seat bottom, said seat back console havinga first lower seat back segment and a second upper seat back segmentconfigured to be opened.
 13. The sofa of claim 12, wherein said secondsofa seat assembly is affixed to said sofa base.
 14. The sofa of claim13, wherein said first sofa seat assembly is hinged to said second sofaseat assembly to enable said first sofa seat assembly to be tilted toprovide upright support for the torso.
 15. The sofa of claim 12, whereinsaid third sofa seat assembly is hinged to said second sofa seatassembly to enable said third sofa seat assembly to be tilted to provideupright support for the upper leg.
 16. The sofa of claim 15, whereinsaid fourth sofa seat assembly is hinged to said third sofa seatassembly third sofa seat assembly to enable said fourth sofa seatassembly to be tilted to provide downward support for the lower leg. 17.The sofa of claim 12, wherein said seat back console is configuredhaving a slot therebetween said first lower seat back segment and saidsecond upper seat back segment to deploy a deployable work surfaceperpendicular to said seat back console in a closed position.
 18. Thesofa of claim 12, wherein said seat back console is configured having atleast one of a storage feature, a power/data feature, a lightingfeature, and combinations thereof.
 19. The sofa of claim 12, whereinsaid first lower seat back segment of said seat back console isconfigured having an armrest for the side facing chaise lounge when saidsecond upper seat back segment is in an open position.
 20. The sofa ofclaim 12, wherein said seat back console further comprises a seat backhinge assembly positioned between said first lower seat back segment andsaid second upper seat back segment.
 21. The sofa of claim 20, whereinsaid seat back hinge assembly traverses a longitudinal axis of saidfirst lower seat back segment.
 22. The sofa of claim 12, wherein saidseat back console further comprises a linear linkage assembly positionedbetween said first lower seat back segment and said second upper seatback segment.
 23. The sofa of claim 17, wherein said seat back consolefurther comprises a work surface storage pocket to stow said deployablework surface.
 24. The sofa of claim 17, wherein said deployable worksurface is configured having a handle positioned proximate a front endof said deployable work surface.
 25. The sofa of claim 17, wherein saiddeployable work surface is configured having an articulating arm, saidarticulating arm having a first arm end and second arm end, said firstarm end is affixed to said first lower seat back segment and said secondarm end extends from said first lower seat back segment through saidslot to affix to said deployable work surface.
 26. The sofa of claim 12,wherein said sofa base is affixed to a vehicle.
 27. A method ofconverting a sofa to a side facing chaise lounge for use by a user tosupport a head, a torso, a buttocks, an upper leg, a lower leg and afoot, said method comprising the steps of: providing a sofa base, a sofaseat bottom supported by said sofa base, said sofa seat bottom having adual use armrest/headrest positioned on one end, wherein said sofa seatbottom is segmented having a first sofa seat assembly to support thetorso, a second sofa seat assembly to support the buttocks, said secondsofa seat assembly is affixed to said sofa base, and said first sofaseat assembly is hinged to said second sofa seat assembly, a third sofaseat assembly to support the upper leg, said third sofa seat assembly ishinged to said second sofa seat assembly, a fourth sofa seat assembly tosupport the lower leg, said fourth sofa seat assembly is hinged to saidthird sofa seat assembly third sofa seat assembly, a seat back consolesupported by said sofa base and positioned adjacent said sofa seatbottom, said seat back console having a first lower seat back segmentand a second upper seat back segment configured to be opened; tiltingsaid first sofa seat assembly to provide upright support for the torso;tilting said third sofa seat assembly to provide upright support for theupper leg; and tilting said fourth sofa seat assembly to providedownward support for the lower leg, wherein said sofa seat bottom isconvertible to the side facing chaise lounge.
 28. The method of claim27, raising said second upper seat back segment to access at least oneof a storage feature, a power/data feature, a lighting feature, andcombinations thereof.
 29. The method of claim 27, raising said secondupper seat back segment to access a deployable work surface stowedtherein.
 30. The method of claim 29, deploying said deployable worksurface to a position perpendicular to said seat back console.
 31. Themethod of claim 27, raising said second upper seat back segment toaccess an armrest.